Removal of an encrusted ureteral stent by cutting the stent with a holmium laser using 4.5-Fr semi-rigid and flexible ureteroscopes.

Introduction: Ureteral stents (double-J stents) are widely used in urology to prevent or relieve ureteral obstruction and have become an integral part of urological practice. We have often experienced cases in which a stent cannot be removed due to encrustation.

Case Presentation: We describe the case of a 54-year-old male, who presented with a severely encrusted ureteral stent, which had only been inserted for one month until second surgery for renal stones. The ureteral stent could not be removed as it had become encrusted with renal stones. The encrusted ureteral stent was successfully removed by cutting it with a Ho:YAG laser using 4.5/6.5-Fr semi-rigid and flexible ureteroscopes retrogradely. The patient subsequently remained stone-free without any complication.

Conclusion: We experienced a case in which an encrusted ureteral stent was successfully removed retrogradely. Technological advancements in endourology will hopefully make the treatment of such cases safer and less invasive.